HIGH-PERFORMANCE RF MODULE TXM-900-HP3-xxx WIRELESS MADE SIMPLE ® HP3 SERIES TRANSMITTER MODULE DATA GUIDE DESCRIPTION 1.290" The HP3 RF transmitter module is the third generation of the popular HP Series. Like its 0.680" predecessors, the HP3 is designed for the costeffective, high-performance wireless transfer of analog or digital information in the popular 9020.178" 928MHz band. HP3 Series parts feature eight SIP Style parallel selectable channels, and some versions 1.260" also add direct serial selection of 100 channels. To ensure reliable performance, the transmitter 0.628" employs FM / FSK modulation and a microprocessor controlled synthesized architecture. 0.150" Both SMD and pinned packages are available. SMD Style When paired with an HP3 receiver, a reliable Figure 1: Package Dimensions link is created for the transfer of analog and digital information up to 1,000 feet. As with all Linx modules, the HP3 requires no tuning or additional RF components (except an antenna), making integration straightforward, even for engineers without prior RF experience. HP SERIES RF TRANSMITTER TXM-900-HP3-SP* LOT 10000 Pin Spacing: 0.1" HP SERIES RF TRANSMITTER TXM-900-HP3-SP* LOT 10000 FEATURES APPLICATIONS INCLUDE 8 parallel, 100 serial (PS Versions) user- Wireless Networks / Data Transfer selectable channels Wireless Analog / Audio FM / FSK modulation for outstanding Home / Industrial Automation performance and noise immunity Remote Access / Control Precision frequency synthesized Remote Monitoring / Telemetry architecture Long-Range RFID Transparent analog / digital interface MIDI Links Wide-range analog capability including audio (50Hz to 28kHz) Voice / Music / Intercom Links Wide temperature range (-30°C to +85°C) ORDERING INFORMATION No external RF PART # DESCRIPTION components required HP3 Transmitter (SIP 8 CH only) Compatible with previous TXM-900-HP3-PPO HP Series modules TXM-900-HP3-PPS HP3 Transmitter (SIP 8p / 100s CH) Power-down and CTS TXM-900-HP3-SPO HP3 Transmitter (SMD 8 CH only) functions TXM-900-HP3-SPS HP3 Transmitter (SMD 8p / 100s CH) Wide supply range MDEV-900-HP3-PPS-USB HP3 Development Kit (SIP Pkg.) (2.8 to 13.0VDC) MDEV-900-HP3-PPS-RS232 HP3 Development Kit (SIP Pkg.) High data rate MDEV-900-HP3-SPS-USB HP3 Development Kit (SMD Pkg.) (up to 56kbps) MDEV-900-HP3-SPS-RS232 HP3 Development Kit (SMD Pkg.) Pinned and SMD packages Transmitters are supplied in tubes of 15 pcs. No production tuning Revised 1/28/08 ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS Parameter Designation Min. ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS Typical Max. Units Notes – Supply Voltage VCC Any Input or Output Pin Operating Temperature Storage Temperature Soldering Temperature POWER SUPPLY Operating Voltage VCC 2.8 3.0 13.0 VDC Supply Current ICC – 14.0 17.0 mA 1 Power-Down Current IPDN – – 15.0 µA 2 FC 902.62 – 927.62 MHz 3 – TRANSMIT SECTION Transmit Frequency Range Center Frequency Accuracy – -50 – +50 kHz Available Channels – 8 (Par.) – 100 (Ser.) – 4 Channel Spacing – – 250 – kHz – Occupied Bandwidth – – 115 140 kHz – PO -3 0 +3 dBm 5 Spurious Emissions – – -45 – dBm 6 Harmonic Emissions 6 Output Power PH – -60 -47 dBm Data Rate – 100 – 56,000 bps 7 Analog / Audio Bandwidth – 50 – 28,000 Hz 7 – 0.0 Logic High – 0.5 VDC – 2.8 – 5.2 VDC – – – 200 – kΩ – Frequency Deviation @ 3VDC – 60 70 110 kHz 8 Frequency Deviation @ 5VDC – 90 115 140 kHz 8 These performance parameters are based on module operation at 25°C from a 5.0VDC supply unless otherwise noted. Figure 2 illustrates the connections necessary for testing and operation. It is recommended all ground pins be connected to the ground plane. The pins marked NC have no electrical connection. ROUT – 50 – Ω – Transmitter Turn-On Time – – 7.0 10.0 mSec – Channel Change Time – – 1.0 1.5 mSec – – -30 – +85 °C – ANTENNA PORT RF Output Impedance TIMING GND ANT GND NC CS0 CS1 / SS CLOCK CS2 / SS D CTS PDN VCC MODE DATA PC PC PC 5VDC PC NC NC NC NC GND NC NC NC NC NC NC GND Figure 2: Test / Basic Application Circuit TYPICAL PERFORMANCE GRAPHS ENVIRONMENTAL Operating Temperature Range VDC VDC °C °C PERFORMANCE DATA – Data Input Impedance to +18.0 to VCC to +85 to +85 for 10 seconds *NOTE* Exceeding any of the limits of this section may lead to permanent damage to the device. Furthermore, extended operation at these maximum ratings may reduce the life of this device. Data Input: Logic Low -0.3 -0.3 -30 -45 +260°C VCC / PDN VCC / PDN Table 1: HP3 Series Transmitter Specifications 1 Notes 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Over the entire operating voltage range. With the PDN pin low. Serial Mode. 100 serial channels on the PS versions only. Does not change over the 3-13VDC supply. Into 50 ohms. The receiver will not reliably hold a DC level. See the HP3 Series Receiver Module Data Guide for the minimum transition rate. 8. The voltage specified is the modulation pin voltage. 1 RX DATA CTS 2 2 CH1 1.00V CH2 2.00V 2.5mS Delta 7.200mS Figure 3: Power-Up to CTS *CAUTION* 2.5mS Delta 7.200mS OUT OUT CH1 2.00V CH2 500mV 250μS Figure 5: Sine Wave Modulation Linearity Page 2 CH2 2.00V IN IN This product incorporates numerous static-sensitive components. Always wear an ESD wrist strap and observe proper ESD handling procedures when working with this device. Failure to observe this precaution may result in module damage or failure. CH1 1.00V Figure 4: TX Powerup to Valid RX Data CH1 2.00V CH2 500mV 250μS Figure 6: Square Wave Modulation Linearity Page 3 PIN ASSIGNMENTS PIN DESCRIPTIONS Surface-Mount Transmitter 9 MODE 10 DATA 7 PDN 8 VCC 5 CS 2 / SS DATA 6 CTS 3 CS0 4 CS1 / SS CLOCK 1 GND 2 ANT Pinned Transmitter 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 GND ANT GND NC CS0 CS1 / SS CLOCK CS2 / SS DATA CTS PDN VCC MODE DATA NC NC NC NC GND NC NC NC NC NC NC GND 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 Pin # SMD Pinned 1, 3 13, 20 1 Name Equivalent Circuit Analog Ground GND 2 2 ANT 5 3 CS0 Description RF Out 50Ω 50-ohm RF Output 25k Channel Select 0 µ CS0 Figure 7: HP3 Series Receiver Pinout Pin # SMD SIP 6 Name Description 1 1 GND Analog Ground 2 2 ANT 50-ohm RF Output 3 GND Analog Ground (SMD only) 4 NC No Electrical Connection. Soldered for physical support only. Channel Select 0 5 3 CS0 6 4 CS1 / SS CLOCK 7 5 CS2 / SS DATA 8 6 CTS Clear-To-Send. This line will go high when the transmitter is ready to accept data. 9 7 PDN Power Down. Pulling this line low will place the receiver into a low-current state. The module will not be able to receive a signal in this state. Channel Select 1 / Serial Select Clock. Channel Select 1 when in parallel channel selection mode, clock input for serial channel selection mode. Channel Select 2 / Serial Select Data. Channel Select 2 when in parallel channel selection mode, data input for serial channel selection mode. 10 8 VCC Supply Voltage 11 9 MODE Mode Select. GND for parallel channel selection, VCC for serial channel selection 12 13, 20 14-19, 21-24 Page 4 10 DATA Digital / Analog Data Input. This line will output the demodulated digital data. GND Analog Ground (SMD only) NC No Electrical Connection. Soldered for physical support only. (SMD only) 7 8 4 5 6 CS1 / SS CLOCK CS2 / SS DATA CTS 25k µ CS1 25k µ CS2 Channel Select 1 / Serial Select Clock Channel Select 2 / Serial Select Data Clear-to-Send Output CTS Out VCC 430k 9 7 PDN 10 8 VCC 11 9 MODE Power Down (Active Low) PDN Voltage Input 2.8-13V 25k 100k 12 10 160k DATA Digital / Analog Input 510k 4, 14-19, 21-24 NC Mode Select µ MODE SMD (Only) 20pF No Electrical Connection Figure 8: Pin Functions and Equivalent Circuits Page 5 THEORY OF OPERATION POWER-UP SEQUENCE The HP3 Series transmitter is a high-performance, multi-channel RF transmitter capable of transmitting both analog (FM) and digital (FSK) information. FM / FSK modulation offers significant advantages over AM or OOK modulation methods, including increased noise immunity and the receiver’s ability to capture in the presence of multiple signals. This is especially helpful in crowded bands, such as the one in which the HP3 operates. DATA IN MODE CS0 CS1 CS2 μP 4MHz Int. Osc. PLL Modulator VCO Band Pass Filter RF OUT Figure 9: HP-3 Series Transmitter Block Diagram A precision 12.00MHz Voltage Controlled Crystal Oscillator (VCXO) serves as the frequency reference for the transmitter. Incoming data is filtered to limit the bandwidth, and then used to directly modulate the reference. Direct reference modulation inside the loop bandwidth provides fast start-up, while allowing a wide modulation bandwidth and near DC modulation capability. This also eliminates the need for code balancing. The modulated 12.00MHz reference frequency is applied to the Phase-Locked Loop (PLL). The PLL, combined with a 902 to 928MHz VCXO, forms a frequency synthesizer that can be programmed to oscillate at the desired transmit frequency. An on-board microcontroller manages the PLL programming and greatly simplifies user interface. The microcontroller reads the channel selection lines and programs the on-board synthesizer. This frees the designer from complex programming requirements and allows for manual or software channel selection. The microcontroller also monitors the status of the PLL and indicates when the transmitter is ready to transmit data by pulling the CTS line high. The PLL-locked carrier is amplified to increase the output power of the transmitter and to isolate the VCO from the antenna. The output of the buffer amplifier is connected to a filter network, which suppresses harmonic emissions. Finally, the signal reaches the single-ended antenna port, which is matched to 50 ohms to support commonly available antennas, such as those from Linx. CTS OUTPUT The Clear-To-Send (CTS) output goes high to indicate that the transmitter PLL is locked and the module is ready to accept data. In a typical application, a microcontroller will raise the PDN line high and begin to monitor the CTS line. When the line goes high, the microcontroller will start sending data. It is not necessary to use the CTS output, but if not used, the circuit should wait a minimum of 10mS after raising the PDN line high before transmitting data. If data is being sent redundantly, there is generally no need to monitor the CTS line or to wait a fixed time, though the initial bits may not get through. Page 6 Parallel Mode Determine Mode Serial Mode Read ChannelSelection Inputs Program Freq. Synth To Default CH. 50 Program Frequency Synthesizer Crystal Oscillator Begins to Operate Ready for Crystal Oscillator 12MHz Crystal Amplifier The adjacent figure shows the start-up sequence. It is executed when power is applied to the VCC line or when the PDN line is taken high. POWER ON Serial Data Input Begins to Operate On power-up, the microprocessor reads the external channel-selection lines and Program Frequency sets the frequency synthesizer to the Determine State of Synthesizer CTS Output Line appropriate channel. When the frequency Determine State of synthesizer has locked on to the proper CTS Output Line Cycle Here Until channel frequency, the circuit is ready to Channel or Mode Change accept data. This is acknowledged by the Cycle Here Until More Data Input, Mode Change, CTS line transitioning high. The module or PLL Loses Lock will then transmit data from the user’s circuit. Figure 10: Start-up Sequence POWER SUPPLY The HP3 incorporates a precision, low-dropout regulator on-board, which allows operation over an input voltage range of 2.8 to 13 volts DC. Despite this regulator, it is still important to provide a supply that is free of noise. Power supply noise can significantly affect the transmitter modulation; therefore, providing a clean power supply for the module should be a high priority during design. Vcc TO MODULE 10Ω Vcc IN + 28kHz Low Pass Filter The HP3 transmitter is controlled by an on-board microprocessor. When power is applied, a start-up sequence is initiated. At the end of the start-up sequence, the transmitter is ready to transmit data. 10μF Figure 11: Supply Filter A 10Ω resistor in series with the supply followed by a 10µF tantalum capacitor from VCC to ground will help in cases where the quality of supply power is poor. This filter should be placed close to the module’s supply lines. These values may need to be adjusted depending on the noise present on the supply line. USING THE PDN PIN The Power Down (PDN) line can be used to power down the transmitter without the need for an external switch. This line has an internal pull-up, so when it is held high or simply left floating, the module will be active. When the PDN line is pulled to ground, the transmitter will enter into a lowcurrent (<15µA) power-down mode. During this time, the transmitter is off and cannot perform any function. The PDN line allows easy control of the transmitter state from external components, such as a microcontroller. By periodically activating the transmitter, sending data, then powering down, the transmitter’s average current consumption can be greatly reduced, saving power in battery-operated applications. Page 7 ADJUSTING THE OUTPUT POWER TIMING CONSIDERATIONS Depending on the type of antenna being used, the output power of the transmitter may be higher than FCC regulations allow. It is intentionally set high to compensate for losses resulting from inefficient antennas. Since attenuation is often required, it is generally wise to provide for its implementation so that the FCC test lab can easily attenuate the transmitter to the maximum legal limit. A T-pad is a network of three resistors that allows for variable attenuation while maintaining the correct match to the antenna. An example layout is shown in the adjacent figure. For more details on T-pad attenuators, please see Application Note AN-00150. RF MODULE R1 R1 ANTENNA R2 GROUND PLANE ON LOWER LAYER GROUND Figure 12: T-Pad Attenuator Example Layout INPUTTING DIGITAL DATA The DATA line may be directly connected to virtually any digital peripheral, including microcontrollers, encoders, and UARTs. It has an impedance of 200kΩ and can be used with any data that transitions from 0V to a 3 to 5V peak amplitude within the specified data rate of the module. While it is possible to send data at higher rates, the internal filter will cause severe roll off and attenuation. Many RF products require a fixed data rate or place tight constraints on the mark / space ratio of the data being sent. The HP3 transmitter architecture eliminates such considerations and allows virtually any signal, including PWM, Manchester, and NRZ data, to be sent at rates from 100bps to 56kbps. The HP3 does not encode or packetize the data in any manner. This transparency gives the designer great freedom in software and protocol development. A designer may also find creative ways to utilize the ability of the transmitter to accept both digital and analog signals. For example, an application might transmit voice, then send out a digital control command. Such mixed mode systems can greatly enhance the function and versatility of many products. INPUTTING ANALOG SIGNALS Analog signals from 50Hz to 28kHz may be connected directly to the transmitter’s DATA line. The HP3 is a single supply device and, as such, is not capable of operating in the negative voltage range. Analog sources should be within 0 to 5VP-P and should, in most cases, be AC-coupled into the DATA line to achieve the best performance. The size of the coupling capacitor should be large enough to ensure the passage of all desired frequencies and small enough to allow the start-up time desired. Since the modulation voltage applied to the DATA line determines the carrier deviation, distortion can occur if the DATA line is over-driven. The actual level of the input waveform should be adjusted to achieve optimum in-circuit results for your application. The HP3 is capable of providing audio quality comparable to a radio or intercom. In applications where higher quality audio is required, a compandor may be employed to increase dynamic range and reduce noise. If true high-fidelity audio is required, the HP3 is probably not the best choice, as it is optimized for data. Page 8 Timing plays a key role in link reliability, especially when the modules are being rapidly turned on and off or hopping channels. Unlike a wire, allowance must be made for the programming and settling times of both the transmitter and receiver, or portions of the signal will be lost. There are two major timing considerations the engineer must consider when designing with the HP3 Series transmitter. These are shown in the table below. The stated timing parameters assume a stable supply of 2.8 volts or greater. They do not include the charging times of external capacitance on the module’s supply lines, the overhead of external software execution, or power supply rise times. Parameter Description Max. T1 Transmitter turn-on time 10.0mS T2 Channel change time (time to valid data) 1.5mS T1 is the maximum time required for the transmitter to power-up and lock onchannel. This time is measured from the application of VCC to the CTS line transitioning high. T2 is the worst-case time needed for a powered-up module to switch between channels after a valid channel selection. This time does not include external overhead for loading a desired channel in Serial Channel Select Mode. Normally, the transmitter will be turned off after each transmission. This is courteous use of the airwaves and reduces power consumption. The transmitter may be shut down by switching its supply or the PDN line. When the transmitter is again powered up, allowance must be made for the requirements above. In many cases, the transmitter will lock more quickly than the times indicated. When turn-around time or power consumption are critical, the CTS line can be monitored so data may be sent immediately upon transmitter readiness. TRANSMITTING DATA Once an RF link has been established, the challenge becomes how to effectively transfer data across it. While a properly designed RF link provides reliable data transfer under most conditions, there are still distinct differences from a wired link that must be addressed. Since the modules do not incorporate internal encoding or decoding, the user has tremendous flexibility in how data is handled. It is important to separate the types of transmissions that are technically possible from those that are legally allowed in the country of operation. Application Notes AN-00126, AN-00140 and Part 15, Section 249 of the FCC rules should be reviewed for details on acceptable transmission content in the U.S. If you want to transfer simple control or status signals (such as button presses) and your product does not have a microprocessor or you wish to avoid protocol development, consider using an encoder / decoder IC set. These chips are available from several manufacturers, including Linx. They take care of all encoding and decoding functions and provide a number of data lines to which switches can be directly connected. Address bits are usually provided for security and to allow the addressing of multiple receivers independently. These ICs are an excellent way to bring basic remote control products to market quickly and inexpensively. It is also a simple task to interface with inexpensive microprocessors or one of many IR, remote control, DTMF, or modem ICs. Page 9 CHANNEL SELECTION Parallel Selection SERIAL CHANNEL SELECTION TABLE CS2 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 CS1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 CS0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 Channel 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Frequency 903.37 906.37 907.87 909.37 912.37 915.37 919.87 921.37 All HP3 transmitter models feature eight parallel selectable channels. Parallel Mode is selected by grounding the MODE line. In this mode, channel selection is determined by the logic states of pins CS0, CS1, and CS2, as shown in the table. Table 2: Parallel Channel Selection Table A ‘0’ represents ground and a ‘1’ the supply. The on-board microprocessor performs all PLL loading functions, eliminating external programming and allowing channel selection via DIP switches or a product’s processor. Serial Selection In addition to the Parallel Mode, PS versions of the HP3 also feature 100 serially selectable channels. The Serial Mode is entered when the MODE line is left open or held high. In this condition, CS1 and CS2 become a synchronous serial port, with CS1 serving as the clock line and CS2 as the data line. The module is easily programmed by sending and latching the binary number (0 to 100) of the desired channel (see the adjacent Serial Channel Selection Table). With no additional effort, the module’s microprocessor handles the complex PLL loading functions. The Serial Mode is Variable Data Note 2 straightforward; however, Data minimum timings and bit Note 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 order must be followed. Clock T0 Loading is initiated by 1ms taking the clock line high Note 3 T3 T4 8µs and the data line low as T2 5µs T1 5µs shown. The eight-bit 25µs 1) Loading begins when clock line is high and data line is taken low channel number is then clocked-in one bit at a 2) Ensure that edge is fully risen prior to high-clock transition 3) Both lines high triggers automatic latch time, with the LSB first. (T0) Time between packets or prior to data startup ................................1mS (T1) Data-LO / Clock-HI to Data-LO / Clock-LO .......................................25µS (T2) Clock-LO to Clock-HI ...........................................................................5µS (T3) Clock-HI to Clock-LO ...........................................................................8µS (T4) Data-HI / Clock-HI .................................................................................5µS Total Packet Time ......................................................................................157µS min. min. min. min. min. min. Figure 13: PLL Serial Data Timing There is no maximum time for this process, only the minimum times that must be observed. After the eighth bit, both the clock and data lines should be taken high to trigger the automatic data latch. A typical software routine can complete the loading sequence in under 200μS. Sample code is available on the Linx website. NOTE: When the module is powered up in the Serial Mode, it will default to channel 50 until changed by user software. This allows testing apart from external programming and prevents out-of-band operation. When programmed properly, the dwell time on this default channel can be less than 200μS. Channel 50 is not counted as a usable channel since data errors may occur as transmitters also default to channel 50 on startup. If a loading error occurs, such as a channel number >100 or a timing problem, the receiver will default to serial channel 0. This is useful for debugging as it verifies serial port activity. Page 10 CHANNEL TX FREQUENCY 0 902.62 1 902.87 2 903.12 3 903.37 4 903.62 5 903.87 6 904.12 7 904.37 8 904.62 9 904.87 10 905.12 11 905.37 12 905.62 13 905.87 14 906.12 15 906.37 16 906.62 17 906.87 18 907.12 19 907.37 20 907.62 21 907.87 22 908.12 23 908.37 24 908.62 25 908.87 26 909.12 27 909.37 28 909.62 29 909.87 30 910.12 31 910.37 32 910.62 33 910.87 34 911.12 35 911.37 36 911.62 37 911.87 38 912.12 39 912.37 40 912.62 41 912.87 42 913.12 43 913.37 44 913.62 45 913.87 46 914.12 47 914.37 48 914.62 49 914.87 50* 915.12 *See NOTE on previous page. RX LO CHANNEL 867.92 868.17 868.42 868.67 868.92 869.17 869.42 869.67 869.92 870.17 870.42 870.67 870.92 871.17 871.42 871.67 871.92 872.17 872.42 872.67 872.92 873.17 873.42 873.67 873.92 874.17 874.42 874.67 874.92 875.17 875.42 875.67 875.92 876.17 876.42 876.67 876.92 877.17 877.42 877.67 877.92 878.17 878.42 878.67 878.92 879.17 879.42 879.67 879.92 880.17 880.42 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 TX FREQUENCY 915.37 915.62 915.87 916.12 916.37 916.62 916.87 917.12 917.37 917.62 917.87 918.12 918.37 918.62 918.87 919.12 919.37 919.62 919.87 920.12 920.37 920.62 920.87 921.12 921.37 921.62 921.87 922.12 922.37 922.62 922.87 923.12 923.37 923.62 923.87 924.12 924.37 924.62 924.87 925.12 925.37 925.62 925.87 926.12 926.37 926.62 926.87 927.12 927.37 927.62 = Also available in Parallel RX LO 880.67 880.92 881.17 881.42 881.67 881.92 882.17 882.42 882.67 882.92 883.17 883.42 883.67 883.92 884.17 884.42 884.67 884.92 885.17 885.42 885.67 885.92 886.17 886.42 886.67 886.92 887.17 887.42 887.67 887.92 888.17 888.42 888.67 888.92 889.17 889.42 889.67 889.92 890.17 890.42 890.67 890.92 891.17 891.42 891.67 891.92 892.17 892.42 892.67 892.92 Mode Page 11 The figure below shows a typical RS-232 circuit using the HP3 Series transmitter and a Maxim MAX232. The MAX232 converts RS-232 compliant signals to a serial data stream, which the transmitter then sends. The MODE line is grounded, so the channels are selected by the DIP switches. External interference can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Low-level interference will produce noise and hashing on the output and reduce the link’s overall range. High-level interference is caused by nearby products sharing the same frequency or from near-band high-power devices. It can even come from your own products if more than one transmitter is active in the same area. It is important to remember that only one transmitter at a time can occupy a frequency, regardless of the coding of the transmitted signal. This type of interference is less common than those mentioned previously, but in severe cases it can prevent all useful function of the affected device. Although technically it is not interference, multipath is also a factor to be understood. Multipath is a term used to refer to the signal cancellation effects that occur when RF waves arrive at the receiver in different phase relationships. This effect is a particularly significant factor in interior environments where objects provide many different signal reflection paths. Multipath cancellation results in lowered signal levels at the receiver and, thus, shorter useful distances for the link. Page 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 C1+ V+ C1C2+ C2VT2OUT R2IN VCC GND T1OUT R1IN R1OUT T1IN T2IN R2OUT 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 1 6 2 7 3 8 4 9 5 GND GND VCC MAX232 C5 4.7uF GND GND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 NC NC NC NC GND NC NC NC NC NC NC GND GND ANT GND NC CS0 CS1 / SS CLOCK CS2 / SS DATA CTS PDN VCC MODE DATA 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 14 13 TXM-900-HP3 GND GND Figure 14: HP3 Transmitter and MAX232 IC The figure below shows a circuit using the QS Series USB module. The QS converts USB compliant signals from a PC to serial data to be sent to the transmitter. The MODE line is high, so the module is in Serial Channel Select Mode. The RTS and DTR lines are used to load the channels. Application Note AN-00155 shows sample source code that can be adapted to use on a PC. The QS Series Data Guide and Application Note AN-00200 discuss the hardware and software set-up required for QS Series modules. USB-B CONNECTOR GSHD Interference may come from internal or external sources. The first step is to eliminate interference from noise sources on the board. This means paying careful attention to layout, grounding, filtering, and bypassing in order to eliminate all radiated and conducted interference paths. For many products, this is straightforward; however, products containing components such as switching power supplies, motors, crystals, and other potential sources of noise must be approached with care. Comparing your own design with a Linx evaluation board can help to determine if and at what level design-specific interference is present. + C4 4.7uF GSHD The RF spectrum is crowded and the potential for conflict with other unwanted sources of RF is very real. While all RF products are at risk from interference, its effects can be minimized by better understanding its characteristics. + C2 4.7uF DB-9 + C3 4.7uF 5 INTERFERENCE CONSIDERATIONS C1 4.7uF 6 Errors from interference or changing signal conditions can cause corruption of the data packet, so it is generally wise to structure the data being sent into small packets. This allows errors to be managed without affecting large amounts of data. A simple checksum or CRC could be used for basic error detection. Once an error is detected, the protocol designer may wish to simply discard the corrupt data or implement a more sophisticated scheme to correct it. VCC VCC Despite this transparency and ease of use, it must be recognized that there are distinct differences between a wired and a wireless environment. Issues such as interference and contention must be understood and allowed for in the design process. To learn more about protocol considerations, we suggest you read Linx Application Note AN-00160. + While many RF solutions impose data formatting and balancing requirements, Linx RF modules do not encode or packetize the signal content in any manner. The received signal will be affected by such factors as noise, edge jitter, and interference, but it is not purposefully manipulated or altered by the modules. This gives the designer tremendous flexibility for protocol design and interface. TYPICAL APPLICATIONS + PROTOCOL GUIDELINES GND GND 4 GND 3 DAT+ DAT 1 5V GND GND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 USBDP RI USBDM DCD GND DSR VCC DATA_IN SUSP_IND DATA_OUT RX_IND RTS TX_IND CTS 485_TX DTR SDM-USB-QS 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 1 2 3 4 GND 5 6 7 VCC 9 11 12 GND ANT GND NC CS0 CS1 / SS CLOCK CS2 / SS DATA CTS PDN VCC MODE DATA NC NC NC NC GND NC NC 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 NC NC GND 14 13 TXM-900-HP3 GND Figure 15: HP3 Transmitter and Linx QS Series USB Module The transmitter can also be connected to a microcontroller, which will generate the data based on specific actions. A UART may be employed or an I / O line may be “bit banged” to send the data to the transmitter. The transmitter may be connected directly to the microcontroller without the need for buffering or amplification. Page 13 BOARD LAYOUT GUIDELINES MICROSTRIP DETAILS If you are at all familiar with RF devices, you may be concerned about specialized board layout requirements. Fortunately, because of the care taken by Linx in designing the modules, integrating them is very straightforward. Despite this ease of application, it is still necessary to maintain respect for the RF stage and exercise appropriate care in layout and application in order to maximize performance and ensure reliable operation. The antenna can also be influenced by layout choices. Please review this data guide in its entirety prior to beginning your design. By adhering to good layout principles and observing some basic design rules, you will be on the path to RF success. The adjacent figure shows the suggested PCB footprint for the module. The actual pad dimensions are shown in the Pad Layout section of this manual. A ground plane (as large as possible) should be placed on a lower layer of your PC board opposite the module. This ground plane can also be critical to the performance of your antenna, which will be discussed later. There should not be any ground or traces under the module on the same layer as the module, just bare PCB. GROUND PLANE ON LOWER LAYER A transmission line is a medium whereby RF energy is transferred from one place to another with minimal loss. This is a critical factor, especially in highfrequency products like Linx RF modules, because the trace leading to the module’s antenna can effectively contribute to the length of the antenna, changing its resonant bandwidth. In order to minimize loss and detuning, some form of transmission line between the antenna and the module should be used, unless the antenna can be placed very close (<1/8in.) to the module. One common form of transmission line is a coax cable, another is the microstrip. This term refers to a PCB trace running over a ground plane that is designed to serve as a transmission line between the module and the antenna. The width is based on the desired characteristic impedance of the line, the thickness of the PCB, and the dielectric constant of the board material. For standard 0.062in thick FR4 board material, the trace width would be 111 mils. The correct trace width can be calculated for other widths and materials using the information below. Handy software for calculating microstrip lines is also available on the Linx website, www.linxtechnologies.com. Trace Figure 16: Suggested PCB Layout Board During prototyping, the module should be soldered to a properly laid-out circuit board. The use of prototyping or “perf” boards will result in horrible performance and is strongly discouraged. Ground plane No conductive items should be placed within 0.15in of the module’s top or sides. Do not route PCB traces directly under the module. The underside of the module has numerous signal-bearing traces and vias that could short or couple to traces on the product’s circuit board. The module’s ground lines should each have their own via to the ground plane and be as short as possible. AM / OOK receivers are particularly subject to noise. The module should, as much as reasonably possible, be isolated from other components on your PCB, especially high-frequency circuitry such as crystal oscillators, switching power supplies, and high-speed bus lines. Make sure internal wiring is routed away from the module and antenna, and is secured to prevent displacement. The power supply filter should be placed close to the module’s VCC line. In some instances, a designer may wish to encapsulate or “pot” the product. Many Linx customers have done this successfully; however, there are a wide variety of potting compounds with varying dielectric properties. Since such compounds can considerably impact RF performance, it is the responsibility of the designer to carefully evaluate and qualify the impact and suitability of such materials. The trace from the module to the antenna should be kept as short as possible. A simple trace is suitable for runs up to 1/8-inch for antennas with wide bandwidth characteristics. For longer runs or to avoid detuning narrow bandwidth antennas, such as a helical, use a 50-ohm coax or 50-ohm microstrip transmission line as described in the following section. Page 14 Figure 17: Microstrip Formulas Dielectric Constant Width/Height (W/d) Effective Dielectric Constant Characteristic Impedance 4.80 4.00 1.8 2.0 3.59 3.07 50.0 51.0 2.55 3.0 2.12 48.0 Page 15 PAD LAYOUT AUTOMATED ASSEMBLY The following pad layout diagram is designed to facilitate both hand and automated assembly. Pinned Transmitter For high-volume assembly, most users will want to auto-place the modules. The modules have been designed to maintain compatibility with reflow processing techniques; however, due to the their hybrid nature, certain aspects of the assembly process are far more critical than for other component types. Surface-Mount Transmitter 0.065 0.060 0.060 0.100 Following are brief discussions of the three primary areas where caution must be observed. 0.070 Reflow Temperature Profile 0.3" 0.628 The single most critical stage in the automated assembly process is the reflow stage. The reflow profile below should not be exceeded, since excessive temperatures or transport times during reflow will irreparably damage the modules. Assembly personnel will need to pay careful attention to the oven’s profile to ensure that it meets the requirements necessary to successfully reflow all components while still remaining within the limits mandated by the modules. The figure below shows the recommended reflow oven profile for the modules. 0.030 Dia. Finished 0.100 Figure 18: Recommended PCB Layout PRODUCTION GUIDELINES 300 The modules are housed in a hybrid SMD package that supports hand or automated assembly techniques. Since the modules contain discrete components internally, the assembly procedures are critical to ensuring the reliable function of the modules. The following procedures should be reviewed with and practiced by all assembly personnel. Pads located on the bottom of the module are the primary mounting surface. Since these pads are inaccessible during mounting, castellations that run up the side of the module have been provided to facilitate solder wicking to the module’s underside. This allows for very quick hand soldering for prototyping and small volume production. Soldering Iron Tip 217°C 200 185°C 180°C 150 125°C 50 Castellations 0 30 60 90 120 150 180 210 240 270 300 330 360 Time (Seconds) Figure 19: Soldering Technique If the recommended pad guidelines have been followed, the pads will protrude slightly past the edge of the module. Use a fine soldering tip to heat the board pad and the castellation, then introduce solder to the pad at the module’s edge. The solder will wick underneath the module, providing reliable attachment. Tack one module corner first and then work around the device, taking care not to exceed the times listed below. Absolute Maximum Solder Times Hand-Solder Temp. TX +225°C for 10 Seconds Hand-Solder Temp. RX +225°C for 10 Seconds Recommended Solder Melting Point +180°C Reflow Oven: +220°C Max. (See adjoining diagram) Page 16 235°C 100 Solder PCB Pads Recommended Non-RoHS Profile 255°C 250 Temperature (oC) HAND ASSEMBLY Recommended RoHS Profile Max RoHS Profile Figure 20: Maximum Reflow Profile Shock During Reflow Transport Since some internal module components may reflow along with the components placed on the board being assembled, it is imperative that the modules not be subjected to shock or vibration during the time solder is liquid. Should a shock be applied, some internal components could be lifted from their pads, causing the module to not function properly. Washability The modules are wash resistant, but are not hermetically sealed. Linx recommends wash-free manufacturing; however, the modules can be subjected to a wash cycle provided that a drying time is allowed prior to applying electrical power to the modules. The drying time should be sufficient to allow any moisture that may have migrated into the module to evaporate, thus eliminating the potential for shorting damage during power-up or testing. If the wash contains contaminants, the performance may be adversely affected, even after drying. Page 17 ANTENNA CONSIDERATIONS The choice of antennas is a critical and often overlooked design consideration. The range, performance, and legality of an RF link are critically dependent upon the antenna. While adequate antenna performance can often be obtained by trial and error methods, antenna design and matching is a complex task. A professionally designed Figure 21: Linx Antennas antenna, such as those from Linx, will help ensure maximum performance and FCC compliance. Linx transmitter modules typically have an output power that is slightly higher than the legal limits. This allows the designer to use an inefficient antenna, such as a loop trace or helical, to meet size, cost, or cosmetic requirements and still achieve full legal output power for maximum range. If an efficient antenna is used, then some attenuation of the output power will likely be needed. This can easily be accomplished by using the LADJ line or a T-pad attenuator. For more details on T-pad attenuator design, please see Application Note AN-00150. A receiver antenna should be optimized for the frequency or band in which the receiver operates and to minimize the reception of off-frequency signals. The efficiency of the receiver’s antenna is critical to maximizing range performance. Unlike the transmitter antenna, where legal operation may mandate attenuation or a reduction in antenna efficiency, the receiver’s antenna should be optimized as much as is practical. It is usually best to utilize a basic quarter-wave whip until your prototype product is operating satisfactorily. Other antennas can then be evaluated based on the cost, size, and cosmetic requirements of the product. You may wish to review Application Note AN-00500 “Antennas: Design, Application, Performance” ANTENNA SHARING In cases where a transmitter and receiver VDD module are combined to form a transceiver, Transmitter 0.1μF it is often advantageous to share a single Module 0.1μF Antenna antenna. To accomplish this, an antenna 0.1μF GND switch must be used to provide isolation 0.1μF between the modules so that the full GND Receiver Module transmitter output power is not put on the 0.1μF sensitive front end of the receiver. There Select are a wide variety of antenna switches that Figure 22: Typical Antenna Switch are cost-effective and easy to use. Among the most popular are switches from Macom and NEC. Look for an antenna switch that has high isolation and low loss at the desired frequency of operation. Generally, the Tx or Rx status of a switch will be controlled by a product’s microprocessor, but the user may also make the selection manually. In some cases, where the characteristics of the Tx and Rx antennas need to be different or antenna switch losses are unacceptable, it may be more appropriate to utilize two discrete antennas. Page 18 GENERAL ANTENNA RULES The following general rules should help in maximizing antenna performance. 1. Proximity to objects such as a user’s hand, body, or metal objects will cause an antenna to detune. For this reason, the antenna shaft and tip should be positioned as far away from such objects as possible. 2. Optimum performance will be obtained from a 1/4- or 1/2-wave straight whip mounted at a right angle to the ground plane. In many cases, this isn’t desirable OPTIMUM for practical or ergonomic reasons, thus, NOT RECOMMENDED USEABLE an alternative antenna style such as a helical, loop, or patch may be utilized Figure 23: Ground Plane Orientation and the corresponding sacrifice in performance accepted. 3. If an internal antenna is to be used, keep it away from other metal components, particularly large items like transformers, batteries, PCB tracks, and ground planes. In many cases, the space around the antenna is as important as the antenna itself. Objects in close proximity to the antenna can cause direct detuning, while those farther away will alter the antenna’s symmetry. 4. In many antenna designs, particularly 1/4-wave VERTICAL λ/4 GROUNDED ANTENNA (MARCONI) whips, the ground plane acts as a counterpoise, DIPOLE forming, in essence, a 1/2-wave dipole. For this ELEMENT reason, adequate ground plane area is essential. The ground plane can be a metal case or ground-fill areas on a circuit board. Ideally, it should have a GROUND surface area > the overall length of the 1/4-wave PLANE VIRTUAL λ/4 radiating element. This is often not practical due to DIPOLE size and configuration constraints. In these instances, a designer must make the best use of the Figure 24: Dipole Antenna area available to create as much ground plane as possible in proximity to the base of the antenna. In cases where the antenna is remotely located or the antenna is not in close proximity to a circuit board, ground plane, or grounded metal case, a metal plate may be used to maximize the antenna’s performance. E λ/4 I λ/4 5. Remove the antenna as far as possible from potential interference sources. Any frequency of sufficient amplitude to enter the receiver’s front end will reduce system range and can even prevent reception entirely. Switching power supplies, oscillators, or even relays can also be significant sources of potential interference. The single best weapon against such problems is attention to placement and layout. Filter the module’s power supply with a high-frequency bypass capacitor. Place adequate ground plane under potential sources of noise to shunt noise to ground and prevent it from coupling to the RF stage. Shield noisy board areas whenever practical. 6. In some applications, it is advantageous to place the module and antenna away from the main equipment. This can avoid interference problems and allows the antenna to be oriented for optimum performance. Always use 50Ω coax, like RG-174, for the remote feed. CASE NUT GROUND PLANE (MAY BE NEEDED) Figure 25: Remote Ground Plane Page 19 COMMON ANTENNA STYLES ONLINE RESOURCES There are literally hundreds of antenna styles and variations that can be employed with Linx RF modules. Following is a brief discussion of the styles most commonly utilized. Additional antenna information can be found in Linx Application Notes AN-00100, AN-00140, and AN-00500. Linx antennas and connectors offer outstanding performance at a low price. Whip Style L= A whip-style antenna provides outstanding overall performance and stability. A low-cost whip is can be easily fabricated from a wire or rod, but most designers opt for the consistent performance and cosmetic appeal of a professionally-made model. To meet this need, Linx offers a wide variety of straight and reduced-height whip-style antennas in permanent and connectorized mounting styles. 234 F MHz Where: L = length in feet of quarter-wave length F = operating frequency in megahertz The wavelength of the operational frequency determines an antenna’s overall length. Since a full wavelength is often quite long, a partial 1/2- or 1/4-wave antenna is normally employed. Its size and natural radiation resistance make it well matched to Linx modules. The proper length for a straight 1/4-wave can be easily determined using the adjacent formula. It is also possible to reduce the overall height of the antenna by using a helical winding. This reduces the antenna’s bandwidth, but is a great way to minimize the antenna’s physical size for compact applications. This also means that the physical appearance is not always an indicator of the antenna’s frequency. Specialty Styles Loop Style Linx offers a wide variety of specialized antenna styles. Many of these styles utilize helical elements to reduce the overall antenna size while maintaining reasonable performance. A helical antenna’s bandwidth is often quite narrow and the antenna can detune in proximity to other objects, so care must be exercised in layout and placement. A loop- or trace-style antenna is normally printed directly on a product’s PCB. This makes it the most cost-effective of antenna styles. The element can be made self-resonant or externally resonated with discrete components, but its actual layout is usually product specific. Despite the cost advantages, loop-style antennas are generally inefficient and useful only for short-range applications. They are also very sensitive to changes in layout and PCB dielectric, which can cause consistency issues during production. In addition, printed styles are difficult to engineer, requiring the use of expensive equipment, including a network analyzer. An improperly designed loop will have a high SWR at the desired frequency, which can cause instability in the RF stage. Linx offers low-cost planar and chip antennas that mount directly to a product’s PCB. These tiny antennas do not require testing and provide excellent performance in light of their small size. They offer a preferable alternative to the often-problematic “printed” antenna. Page 20 ® www.linxtechnologies.com • • • • • Latest News Data Guides Application Notes Knowledgebase Software Updates If you have questions regarding any Linx product and have Internet access, make www.linxtechnologies.com your first stop. Our website is organized in an intuitive format to immediately give you the answers you need. Day or night, the Linx website gives you instant access to the latest information regarding the products and services of Linx. It’s all here: manual and software updates, application notes, a comprehensive knowledgebase, FCC information, and much more. Be sure to visit often! www.antennafactor.com The Antenna Factor division of Linx offers a diverse array of antenna styles, many of which are optimized for use with our RF modules. From innovative embeddable antennas to low-cost whips, domes to Yagis, and even GPS, Antenna Factor likely has an antenna for you, or can design one to meet your requirements. www.connectorcity.com Through its Connector City division, Linx offers a wide selection of high-quality RF connectors, including FCCcompliant types such as RP-SMAs that are an ideal match for our modules and antennas. Connector City focuses on high-volume OEM requirements, which allows standard and custom RF connectors to be offered at a remarkably low cost. Page 21 LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS NOTE: Linx RF modules are designed as component devices that require external components to function. The modules are intended to allow for full Part 15 compliance; however, they are not approved by the FCC or any other agency worldwide. The purchaser understands that approvals may be required prior to the sale or operation of the device, and agrees to utilize the component in keeping with all laws governing its use in the country of operation. When working with RF, a clear distinction must be made between what is technically possible and what is legally acceptable in the country where operation is intended. Many manufacturers have avoided incorporating RF into their products as a result of uncertainty and even fear of the approval and certification process. Here at Linx, our desire is not only to expedite the design process, but also to assist you in achieving a clear idea of what is involved in obtaining the necessary approvals to legally market your completed product. In the United States, the approval process is actually quite straightforward. The regulations governing RF devices and the enforcement of them are the responsibility of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The regulations are contained in Title 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Title 47 is made up of numerous volumes; however, all regulations applicable to this module are contained in Volume 0-19. It is strongly recommended that a copy be obtained from the Government Printing Office in Washington or from your local government bookstore. Excerpts of applicable sections are included with Linx evaluation kits or may be obtained from the Linx Technologies website, www.linxtechnologies.com. In brief, these rules require that any device that intentionally radiates RF energy be approved, that is, tested for compliance and issued a unique identification number. This is a relatively painless process. Linx offers full FCC prescreening, and final compliance testing is then performed by one of the many independent testing laboratories across the country. Many labs can also provide other certifications that the product may require at the same time, such as UL, Class A / B, etc. Once your completed product has passed, you will be issued an ID number that is to be clearly placed on each product manufactured. Questions regarding interpretations of the Part 2 and Part 15 rules or measurement procedures used to test intentional radiators, such as Linx RF modules, for compliance with the technical standards of Part 15, should be addressed to: Federal Communications Commission Office of Engineering and Technology Laboratory Division 7435 Oakland Mills Road Columbia, MD 21046-1609 Phone: (301) 362-3000 Fax: (301) 362-3290 E-Mail: [email protected] International approvals are slightly more complex, although Linx modules are designed to allow all international standards to be met. If you are considering the export of your product abroad, you should contact Linx Technologies to determine the specific suitability of the module to your application. All Linx modules are designed with the approval process in mind and thus much of the frustration that is typically experienced with a discrete design is eliminated. Approval is still dependent on many factors, such as the choice of antennas, correct use of the frequency selected, and physical packaging. While some extra cost and design effort are required to address these issues, the additional usefulness and profitability added to a product by RF makes the effort more than worthwhile. Page 22 ACHIEVING A SUCCESSFUL RF IMPLEMENTATION Adding an RF stage brings an exciting new dimension to any product. It also means that additional effort and commitment will be needed to bring the product successfully to market. By utilizing premade RF modules, such as the LR Series, the design and approval process is greatly simplified. It is still important, however, to have an objective view of the steps necessary to ensure a successful RF integration. Since the capabilities of each customer vary widely, it is difficult to recommend one particular design path, but most projects follow steps similar to those shown at the right. DECIDE TO UTILIZE RF RESEARCH RF OPTIONS ORDER EVALUATION KIT(S) TEST MODULE(S) WITH BASIC HOOKUP CHOOSE LINX MODULE INTERFACE TO CHOSEN CIRCUIT AND DEBUG CONSULT LINX REGARDING ANTENNA OPTIONS AND DESIGN LAY OUT BOARD In reviewing this sample design path, you may SEND PRODUCTION-READY PROTOTYPE TO LINX FOR EMC PRESCREENING notice that Linx offers a variety of services (such as antenna design and FCC prequalification) that are OPTIMIZE USING RF SUMMARY GENERATED BY LINX unusual for a high-volume component manufacturer. SEND TO PART 15 These services, along with an exceptional level of TEST FACILITY technical support, are offered because we recognize RECEIVE FCC ID # that RF is a complex science requiring the highest caliber of products and support. “Wireless Made COMMENCE SELLING PRODUCT Simple” is more than just a motto, it’s our Typical Steps For commitment. By choosing Linx as your RF partner Implementing RF and taking advantage of the resources we offer, you will not only survive implementing RF, you may even find the process enjoyable. HELPFUL APPLICATION NOTES FROM LINX It is not the intention of this manual to address in depth many of the issues that should be considered to ensure that the modules function correctly and deliver the maximum possible performance. As you proceed with your design, you may wish to obtain one or more of the following application notes, which address in depth key areas of RF design and application of Linx products. These applications notes are available online at www.linxtechnologies.com or by contacting the Linx literature department. NOTE APPLICATION NOTE TITLE AN-00100 RF 101: Information for the RF Challenged AN-00126 Considerations For Operation Within The 902-928MHz Band AN-00130 Modulation Techniques For Low-Cost RF Data Links AN-00140 The FCC Road: Part 15 From Concept To Approval AN-00155 Serial Loading Techniques for the HP Series 3 AN-00160 Considerations For Sending Data Over a Wireless Link AN-00500 Antennas: Design, Application, Performance Page 23 WIRELESS MADE SIMPLE ® U.S. CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS LINX TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 159 ORT LANE MERLIN, OR 97532 PHONE: (541) 471-6256 FAX: (541) 471-6251 www.linxtechnologies.com Disclaimer Linx Technologies is continually striving to improve the quality and function of its products. For this reason, we reserve the right to make changes to our products without notice. The information contained in this Overview Guide is believed to be accurate as of the time of publication. Specifications are based on representative lot samples. Values may vary from lot-to-lot and are not guaranteed. "Typical" parameters can and do vary over lots and application. Linx Technologies makes no guarantee, warranty, or representation regarding the suitability of any product for use in any specific application. It is the customer's responsibility to verify the suitability of the part for the intended application. NO LINX PRODUCT IS INTENDED FOR USE IN ANY APPLICATION WHERE THE SAFETY OF LIFE OR PROPERTY IS AT RISK. Linx Technologies DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL LINX TECHNOLOGIES BE LIABLE FOR ANY OF CUSTOMER'S INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING IN ANY WAY FROM ANY DEFECTIVE OR NON-CONFORMING PRODUCTS OR FOR ANY OTHER BREACH OF CONTRACT BY LINX TECHNOLOGIES. The limitations on Linx Technologies' liability are applicable to any and all claims or theories of recovery asserted by Customer, including, without limitation, breach of contract, breach of warranty, strict liability, or negligence. Customer assumes all liability (including, without limitation, liability for injury to person or property, economic loss, or business interruption) for all claims, including claims from third parties, arising from the use of the Products. The Customer will indemnify, defend, protect, and hold harmless Linx Technologies and its officers, employees, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, and representatives from and against all claims, damages, actions, suits, proceedings, demands, assessments, adjustments, costs, and expenses incurred by Linx Technologies as a result of or arising from any Products sold by Linx Technologies to Customer. Under no conditions will Linx Technologies be responsible for losses arising from the use or failure of the device in any application, other than the repair, replacement, or refund limited to the original product purchase price. Devices described in this publication may contain proprietary, patented, or copyrighted techniques, components, or materials. Under no circumstances shall any user be conveyed any license or right to the use or ownership of such items. © 2008 by Linx Technologies, Inc. The stylized Linx logo, Linx, “Wireless Made Simple”, CipherLinx, and the stylized CL logo are the trademarks of Linx Technologies, Inc. Printed in U.S.A.